Canova, from clay to marble
From June 11 to October 9, 2023, the National Gallery of Art, Washington, presents “Canova: Sketching in Clay”, the first exhibition to focus on the expressive clay models that Canova created in preparation for his marbles
Source: National Gallery of Art, Washington · Image: John Jackson, “Portrait of Antonio Canova“, 1819-20
Antonio Canova (1757–1822) was the preeminent European artist of his time, renowned for sensual marble sculptures that represented a new approach to classical idealism. Through a careful analysis of approximately 40 of the some 60 terracotta models that survive, the exhibition seeks a deeper understanding of the artist, from his beginnings in Venice during the late 1770s to his death in 1822. Plaster and marble sculptures directly related to the terracottas are also included to help demonstrate how Canova moved from sketch to finished statue. The works—some rarely seen in public—come from private and public collections across Europe and the United States.
A scholarly catalog accompanies the exhibition and explores how and why Canova created his models. Extensive technical research was carried out in conjunction with the show, with findings revealing the steps Canova took in making his models, as well as the tool marks or modeling gestures that distinguish his style.
The exhibition is curated by C. D. Dickerson, curator and head of sculpture and decorative arts, National Gallery of Art, and Emerson Bowyer, Searle Curator, Painting and Sculpture of Europe, The Art Institute of Chicago. The exhibition is organized by the National Gallery of Art, Washington, and The Art Institute of Chicago.
After its run at the National Gallery of Art, “Canova: Sketching in Clay” will be on view at the Art Institute of Chicago from November 19, 2023 to March 18, 2024.
